How Is Fault Determined After a Car Crash?

After a car crash, you start the claim process so you can get compensation for the accident. You’ll have to speak with the other party involved in the accident and your insurance company. One of the main factors with compensation is finding who was responsible for the accident. In some cases, the responsible party may own up to their mistake and admit fault outright. Others who were clearly in the wrong could insist that the accident wasn’t their fault. There may be a few circumstances where one person wasn’t completely at fault and the accident happened because of both parties’ actions.

The car accident fault laws vary from state to state. It’s important to know yours so you’re informed about how your car accident claim will work. If you’ve been in a car accident, the Law Office of Mike Campbell can help. A Missouri car accident lawyer will listen to your case and do everything possible to get you a favorable settlement.

Understanding Missouri’s Car Accident Laws

Missouri’s car accident laws aren’t the same as every other state. Mainly, you need to know these following points about the car accident laws in this state.

At-Fault State. Missouri is an at-fault state. A driver can use their own insurance or the other party’s insurance when they file a car accident claim for compensation.

Comparative Fault System. In Missouri’s comparative fault system, you can receive compensation as long as you weren’t singularly at fault for the accident. You’ll receive more money if you’re less at fault.

Determining Fault for a Car Accident

Car accident claims can’t proceed until you know who is at fault. After a car wreck, there are certain steps you can take to help show that you weren’t responsible for the accident.

Don’t Admit Fault. When speaking to the other party, the police, or the insurance company, it’s important to not admit fault or apologize for the accident. While it may feel natural to say you’re sorry even if you’re not at fault, that statement can later be used against you as an admission of fault.

Evidence About the Accident. The evidence you get after the accident happens can help show that you weren’t at fault. Taking photographs of the damages to your car and the accident site will help back up your claim. You should get multiple angles to make sure you don’t miss anything. If you have injuries, you can keep a record of what injuries you have because of the accident and how they’re affecting your life. Eyewitnesses provide third party, unbiased accounts and can help back up your claim. If anyone witnessed the accident and is willing to make a statement, you should get their name and contact information.

Medical Records. Get copies of your visits to doctors, hospitals, or rehabilitation centers and their evaluations of your health. Also provide information if you’ve had to take medication to deal with your injuries.

Car accidents happen suddenly and can be confusing to many people. When you’re prepared to deal with the aftermath and have an idea of what to do, you have a better chance of getting compensation for your claim.

Reviews

Mike and his staff did an incredible job with my personal injury case. Will be recommending to anyone I know that would find themselves in my circumstance.

John Fisher

14:55 03 Apr 18

Mike Campbell is an inspiration to trial lawyers. I've known Mike for 3 years and as a fellow plaintiffs' lawyer, I have been very impressed by Mike's integrity, honesty and skills as a trial lawyer. Mike is simply a decent, caring and compassionate person and someone I enjoy being around.If you get the chance to hire Mike Campbell, you can be rest assured that you've made an excellent choice.

Olivia Moses

21:03 22 Mar 18

Mike is an incredible attorney and very helpful. I definitely recommend! I had a great experience and am so thankful for his help.

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19:34 06 Mar 18

Mike and his team are great lawyers who fight hard for their clients and obtain great results. I highly recommend them.

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00:33 21 Feb 18

Mike is an excellent attorney and my referral source in the Columbia area. If you have the need for a criminal defense lawyer or if you’ve been injured in an accident, don yourself a favor and contact Mike.

Nathan S.

22:27 11 Jan 18

I highly recommend Mike as an attorney. He is honest, trustworthy and responsive.

Ryan Stephens

21:15 15 Sep 17

Knowledgeable, eager, dedicated, and friendly are a few words I'd use to describe the experience in working with Mike. Not only is he extremely good at what he does, but Mike is also personable and professional.

DJ mixon

22:29 21 Mar 17

Helped me with My traffic case and did a great job. Felt like he really had my best interest in mind. 10/10 would call on Mike Campbell

Patrick Campbell

00:41 22 Jun 16

Very professional. Fantastic at what he does. Will go the extra mile for you when a lot of lawyers won't. If I could rate over 5 stars I would.